I'm a lifelong believer in trade unionism.

My idealism has not abated, but I have witnessed it withering away nationwide, to the point where at least among the young, to have ideals is akin to being blinkered and oldfashioned.

Actually, I think it's quite sensible not to take yourself too seriously.

My approach is always to try to be straight with people, especially about what my party can achieve.

I couldn't imagine a day without music. It relaxes and stimulates me in equal measure and I hate the sound of silence - the concept, I mean, not the track by Simon and Garfunkel.

There is no satisfaction to be derived from having had many of our arguments borne out by events.

Three simple words - freedom, justice and honesty. These sum up what the Liberal Democrats stand for.